Yangmingshan Summer Retreat – The Grass Mountain Chateau Offers Cuisine and Exhibitions

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Summer is the perfect time to escape to the mountains for relief from the heat. When outdoor temperatures soar, only the cool mountain air can truly ease the summer swelter. The Grass Mountain Chateau in Yangmingshan not only offers sweeping views of the Tamsui Guandu Plain but also serves delicious food and hosts art exhibitions.

▲ Nestled among the forested hills, the Grass Mountain Chateau boasts rich natural ecological scenery. (Photo / Provided by Grass Mountain Chateau)

The Grass Mountain Chateau was the first official residence of former President Chiang Kai-shek in Taiwan and one of his favorite retreats. Preferring not to use air conditioning, he would often bring his wife Soong Mei-ling to the chateau to escape the heat, which earned it the nickname“Summer Palace”at the time. After renovation, the chateau retains its historic appearance while also showcasing everyday objects used by Chiang Kai-shek and Madame Chiang.

The chateau also serves classic Zhejiang-style dishes favored by Chiang Kai-shek and Madame Chiang, reimagined using modern Taiwanese culinary techniques. Among them, the “Steamed Lion’s Head Meatball” is a standout — tender, rich yet not greasy, with a delicate and aromatic flavor that was a staple of the Generalissimo’s summer health-conscious meals.

▲ The Grass Mountain Chateau’s highly recommended Steamed Lion’s Head: tender meat and fragrant broth. (Photo / Provided by Grass Mountain Chateau)

The Grass Mountain Chateau is not just a historical site but also an arts and culture salon nestled in the mountains. It regularly hosts various art-themed exhibitions, allowing visitors to enjoy both natural scenery and artistic beauty. This month, from August 15 to September 3, the exhibition “Condensed – Cai Xuhuilan’s Special Exhibition at Grass Mountain Chateau” will be on display, featuring 21 oil paintings and sculptures by renowned artist Cai Xuhuilan, winner of the 2016 Chi Mei Art Award and a past exhibitor at the French Salon.

For more information about events at the Grass Mountain Chateau, please contactthe official Facebook page orthe official website.

Grass Mountain Chateau
Address: No. 89, Hudi Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2862-2404 ‎
Visiting Hours: Closed on Mondays
Exhibition Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00–18:00
Dining Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00–18:00 (main meals available all day), Afternoon Tea: 14:30–17:00 (last orders at 17:00)

Guided Tours:
Free group reservation tours available Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: NT$30 for adults, NT$25 for groups (20 or more people). (Admission fee can be used as a dining discount on the day). For free admission eligibility, please refer to the official website.